Please see the previous lot for a related archive. 

Presentation sword with scabbard presented to Captain John C. Helme. Springfield: N.P. Ames, 1839. 

Complete with brass scabbard. Double-edged, spear-point straight blade measures 31 1/2 in. Sword overall 38 in. long. The blade is etched on both sides with floral motifs; one side features a bald eagle and other patriotic symbols with the word "Liberty" present, while the other has a Native American wielding a bow and tomahawk placed above a collection of swords. The cross-guard is comprised of gilt brass and almost a resembles a bowtie, with a federal shield containing 15 stars at its center. On the grip is an etched "G", likely standing for the Gulick Guards. The pommel features an elaborate gilt brass knight's helmet, attached to the cross-guard by a brass chain knuckleguard. 

While the reverse of the scabbard features another maker's mark, the obverse features several highly detailed engravings. Near the cross-guard is an eagle holding a banner with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" on it. Underneath that is an image of what could be described as an arsenal: There are pikes, halberds and even a cannon surrounded by federal shields and helmets. Following the four stars underneath that is a rather macabre image of a severed head on likely a pike, with a wreath of weapons such as an arrow, a full quiver, an axe, a sword and a rifle. Next to this are the following words: "Presented to / CAPT. JOHN C. HELME. / as a Token of respect, by the members of the / GULICK GUARDS. / Oct. 1839." 

Not much is confirmed about Helme (ca.1808-1881) prior to his involvement with the Gulick Guards in the 1830s. He commanded several militia companies throughout the mid-19th century, including the "First Company National Cadets" in 1844, Company A of the 9th New York State Militia in 1847, "The Continental Guard" in 1851 and an unknown company in the 11th New York State Militia in 1857. He was also police captain of the 27th precinct in 1863 New York, notably helping suppress the 1863 draft riots. Interestingly, Helme was also a daguerrotypist — he worked at a studio located at 111 Bowery between 1846 and 1856. 

The Gulick Guards were a firefighting militia organized in New York City in 1836. An 1838 uniform print by Currier depicts a member of the company in uniform with the motto “Firemen with pleasure - Soldiers at leisure.” 

A beautifully designed presentation sword. 

Note: This lot cannot be packaged and shipped in-house. Successful bidders winning items marked as being packaged and shipped by a third-party service are responsible for paying the third party directly. We are happy to offer complimentary drop-off service to local third-party packing/shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio.

[Mexican War, Mexican-American War, Seminole Wars, Florida Wars] [Swords, Knives, Bowie Knives, Knife, Blades] 

Some pitting to blade. Some discoloration to scabbard.